Cleveland Kidnapping Victims Speak Out to Say 'Thank You'

The three women that former school bus driver Ariel Castro, 52, held captive over the course of a decade spoke out for the first time since their rescue in May. On Tuesday, Amanda Berry, Gina DeJesus and Michelle Knight posted a 3 minute 33 second video, recorded on July 2, on YouTube, thanking the public for their emotional support and financial contributions. Each woman appeared separately; DeJesus's parents also spoke in the video.

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Amanda Berry, who was 16 years old when Ariel Castro kidnapped her in Cleveland, opened the film. In a calm, composed manner, Berry said she is happy to be home with her family and friends. "I want to thank everyone who has helped me and my family through this entire ordeal," she said, also stating she is thankful for everyone's love and kindness. "I am getting stronger each day and having my privacy has helped immensely." She concluded her 30-second speech by asking for the public to continue respecting her privacy so she can have a "normal life."

Gina DeJesus, who was 14 years old at the time of her kidnapping, also thanked everyone for their support. DeJesus's parents, Nancy Ruiz and Felix DeJesus, expressed their gratitude, too. Ruiz advised parents with missing children to count on their neighbors. "Don't be afraid to ask for the help because help is available." Michelle Knight concluded the video, sharing that her faith in God helped her through the traumatic experience. "I may have been through hell and back, but I am strong enough to walk through hell with a smile on my face and with my head held high and my feet firmly on the ground," she said. "Walking hand-in-hand with my best friend, I will not let the situation define who I am. I will define the situation."

What do you think of the women's thank you message? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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